Nigeria has gold deposits in several states, primarily in schist belts across the country. Gold is found in both northern and southwestern regions, with artisanal and small-scale mining common in many areas.

Nigeria has gold deposits in several states, primarily in schist belts across the country. Gold is found in both northern and southwestern regions, with artisanal and small-scale mining common in many areas.
The major states most frequently recognized for significant or prominent gold deposits and mining activity include:
Zamfara State — Often regarded as one of the top or the leading gold-rich state in Nigeria, with major deposits in areas like Maru and Anka. It’s frequently highlighted as a key “gold belt” due to substantial known reserves and historical/ongoing mining.
Osun State — Home to the important Ilesha (or Iperindo) goldfield, a well-known area for gold mineralization in southwestern Nigeria.
Kaduna State — Features notable deposits, including around Birnin Gwari-Kwaga and other zones.
Niger State — Known for rich alluvial gold deposits and several mining sites.
Kebbi State — Has significant gold occurrences, often listed alongside northern states with major potential.
Other states with confirmed gold deposits (though generally considered less major or with smaller/emerging production) include Kogi, Kwara, Sokoto, Oyo, Ondo, Bauchi, Nasarawa, and more—up to around 15-17 states in total have some level of gold mineralization according to geological surveys and reports.
Zamfara and Osun stand out as the most prominent in terms of scale, historical production, and frequent mentions in reliable sources like geological data and mining overviews. Nigeria’s gold sector is largely artisanal, with formal large-scale mining still developing.